Life, love and children

Good morning to all in Australia and around the world. The day has started delightfully, with the sun peeking through the soft clouds to reveal its warmth. The ocean is a calm blue and a gentle cool breeze stirs the air around my apartment. It's the middle of summer yet there has hardly been a sunny dry day as the rain we so desperately need continues to fall. The trouble is now parts of Queensland is flooding and in real need of assistance. I must say, where I live it has been wonderful and now with the cool southerly breeze kissing my skin it is a pleasure to live here and be alive!
While at work, I often sit at my desk and gaze out at the amazing sky and the trees that are planted around the buildings of industry where my office is located. When the breeze tickles their leaves and I am listening to the gentle music combined with the sounds of nature caught by Terry Oldfield, I feel incredibly blessed. The relaxation of my mind encourages deeper thoughts and reflections of my life. I am so very grateful for my husband, my children, my grandchild and the many wonderful people that have walked into and out of my life for each one of them has touched my heart in a warm and inspiring way. They may not know it and I didn't at the time, but reflecting over your life gives you that knowing feeling of gratitude and brings to you the reason they came into your life. It may have been for the friendship you were missing or some information that you've been searching for even though you were not aware of it at the time!
Remember to take 5 mins or even better, half an hour or an hour out of your day for you alone. This is not for selfish reasons but allows you to actually reflect on your day and what you wish to achieve for the remainder of the day or, if your day is finished and the children are tucked into their bed, it might be a time where you can plan the next day. Maybe you could use the time to think of nothing at all! To 'quiet' your mind. I know it has helped me to become a more positive person as it allows me to see the beautiful wonder in the world that surrounds us. By not hearing or seeing the constant flow of bad news in the media, you might actually see the beauty of the natural world we are a part of.
A pleasant scene,like that of a waterfall or colourful flowers gently swaying in the breeze can do wonders to your soul and bring the feeling of happiness to you instantly as can the laughter of an innocent child. A smile given to another human being can be just as rewarding. When you help another person without expectation of anything in return, how much more rewarding is it to your self esteem?
Look at life the way you wish your life to be and it will provide the things you need to keep you happy. Be grateful for all you have and the people in your life as they show you love, friendship or a smile and you will be truly blessed.
Remember to Remember and don't forget to smell the flowers, see the butterflies, hear the sounds of nature, touch some one's heart, and taste life!